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Native-owned AMERIND Risk Advises on Holiday Road and Fire Safety

ICTMN Staff

11/29/13

Hitting the road this holiday? In some areas, winter weather means snow, sleet and ice that can lead to slower traffic, hazardous road conditions and unseen dangers. Are you prepared? According to a recent Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) survey, 52 percent of people reported having supplies set aside for use in a disaster.

While on the road, follow these driving techniques to ensure you reach your destination safely:

• Decrease your speed and leave plenty of room to stop; • Break gently to avoid skidding; • Do not use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads; and • Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to others.

Road conditions can change quickly! Should disaster strike when traveling, use the Disaster Reporter feature on the FEMA app to send photos of your location for first responders and response teams to view. You can also keep up with weather forecasts using your NOAA weather radio to plan ahead! Remember safety first. If weather conditions are too severe, it’s best not to drive.

Holiday Fire Safety

Each year fires occurring during the holiday season injure 2,600 individuals and cause over $930 million in damage in the United States. By following some of the outlined precautionary tips, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty.

Preventing Christmas Tree Fires:

• Select fresh trees –Choose a green tree with a sticky trunk and tight needles. • Care for your tree – Keep it away from heat sources, and keep the tree stand filled with water. Take your tree down after two weeks. • Dispose of your tree at the recyclers –Never put the tree or branches in the fireplace or woodstove.

Holiday Lights Safety:

• Maintain your lights –Inspect the lights, wires, sockets for wear and tear. • Electrical Outlets –Don’t overload outlets or stretch lights to reach outlets. • Periodically check the lights; they should not be warm to the touch. • Turn the lights off when you’re not at home and before going to bed.